How to answer common interview questions

It is important to prepare for an interview. Employers expect you to come prepared to an interview with a resume, and questions.

 

With that expectation, employers seem to always have some common questions they want to ask potential employees. Here are some common interview questions and how to answer them:

 

When an employer chooses to interview you, they are looking for a skills and qualifications fit to meet minimum requirements, but they are also seeing if you personally are a good fit. This is a common question; it can be a point of struggle because it is seemingly open ended. How much do you tell them? How little? Is it work related only? These are good things to think through prior to your interview. A great tip is to write a paragraph before the interview about yourself that sums up who you are in a concise and clear way. Then allow the interviewer to follow up.

 

“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Employers want to know how you view yourself. It is important to come prepared for this question, and the reason is interviewers are trying to get as conclusive of an idea of who you are as a person. Share some weaknesses you have, most of the time weaknesses can also be strengths. For example, “A weakness of mine is perfection. It at times makes me focus on getting things perfect which may not need to be. However, that is also something I would consider a strength because it allows me to get things done very well.” 

You want the interview to see you are aware of your limitations. In addition, share some strengths. It is ok at this time to talk about yourself. Be concise and clear but do not be afraid to talk about some of your more positive qualities!

 

Yes, you are human. Even the interviewer knows you have failed at one point in life. Do not be shocked when you hear this question, be prepared for it. The reason the interviewer is asking you is because there is a good chance you will fail again and potentially on the employers watch if you are hired. They want to get an idea of what type of character you have. Are you someone who is humble to admit your mistake? Do you blame others? Do you work to rectify the mistake? Or do you crumble? 
 
Think of a time when you failed that can shed light to an employer about your character. 

 

Be prepared for this question. It’s getting at something very simple. If you applied for a job, they want to know that you know about the job you are applying for, can do the job you are applying for, and have the requirements for the job you are applying for. 

 

Exude some confidence here. This is not a time for being prideful, this is a time for having confidence in your skillset and what you bring to the table. 
 
If you are not prepared for this question, it is not a good look because it shows maybe you are applying for this job without understanding it. Make sure you understand the jobs you apply for.

 

While this list is not exhaustive, it gives you a good framework to prepare for an interview and find a job today!